July 21, 2008

The International Poultry Council (IPC) has been recognised by the OIE as the official organisation representing the world's poultry meat producers.

IPC and OIE have signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation that recognises the former as a legitimate international organisation.

Under the memorandum, the IPC will provide information on global animal health issues to the OIE and would be invited to join in the OIE's general meetings to report on its activities.

The signing of the memorandum provides a framework for cooperation between the two organisations on poultry health and disease issues of common interest.

Official recognition by the OIE is a milestone for the organisation, according to IPC president Jim Sumner, who also serves as president of the US Poultry & Egg Export Council.

IPC first vice president Tage Lysgaard said the organisation hopes to gain recognition by FAO, Codex and the WTO later this year.